Well, that was more like it. Reeling from consecutive losses and a
performance at Boston College that was disappointing on several levels, the
Hokies resorted to classic Virginia Tech football and rebounded with a 36-6
whipping of Southern Mississippi. With Clemson and Miami on the horizon, the
Hokies not only needed to win, but they needed to play well to set up for the
stretch run. And play well they did.

Offensively, the Hokies established the running game, controlled the line of
scrimmage, and got some big plays from the playmakers. Defensively, after a
shaky start, the Hokies played fast with strong pursuit to the ball, shutting
down Southern Miss for the final 3-1/2 quarters. And the special teams returned
to form, led by the punting of Nic Schmitt.

Overall, the Hokies played Tech football — few mistakes, ground control on
offense, fast and aggressive on defense, and field position dominant on special
teams.

It’s a short week and everyone is already thinking about Clemson, but let’s
break down the Southern Miss game a bit further…

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